Introduction

In a firm rebuttal to growing internal pressures, the General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Fifi Fiavi Kwetey, has publicly denounced calls for a potential third presidential term for John Dramani Mahama. Addressing party faithfuls, Kwetey characterized these appeals not as genuine political support, but as the peak of political sycophancy and “boot-licking.”

This intervention comes amidst a volatile political climate in Ghana, where discussions regarding term limits and party leadership are intensifying. Kwetey’s statement serves as a critical reminder of the NDC’s foundational democratic values, aiming to curb a culture of excessive praise that he argues is detrimental to the party’s integrity and the nation’s democratic health.

Key Points

Background

The NDC and Political Tenure

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has been a central player in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. The discourse surrounding presidential term limits is a sensitive subject in Ghanaian politics. The 1992 Constitution of Ghana limits a president to two four-year terms. However, political rhetoric often tests the boundaries of these constitutional provisions, leading to internal debates within major parties regarding succession planning and legacy.

The Rise of Internal Pressure

Recently, a faction of NDC supporters has intensified campaigns urging John Mahama to run for a third term, ostensibly to “rescue” the nation again. This movement has gained traction on social media and at grassroots gatherings. However, this has triggered a backlash from party leadership, including Kwetey, who views this as a deviation from the party’s democratic ethos. The tension highlights the struggle between “personality politics” and “institutional politics” within the NDC.

Analysis

Understanding Political Sycophancy

Fifi Kwetey’s use of the term “sycophancy” is a calculated political maneuver. In political science, sycophancy refers to the act of flattery directed towards those in power to gain personal favor. Kwetey argues that by encouraging Mahama to overstep constitutional norms, these supporters are not helping him, but rather engaging in self-serving behavior. By labeling these calls as “boot-licking,” Kwetey attempts to delegitimize the movement and frame it as a moral failing rather than a political strategy.

The Rawlings Comparison

Kwetey’s reference to Jerry John Rawlings is significant. Rawlings, the founder of the NDC and a former military leader turned president, stepped down after his constitutionally mandated terms despite his immense popularity. By invoking Rawlings, Kwetey is appealing to the party’s nostalgia and founding principles. It suggests that true leadership respects democratic transitions, a stark contrast to the current calls for indefinite leadership.

Implications for Democratic Consolidation

From a pedagogical standpoint, this conflict illustrates the challenges of democratic consolidation in emerging democracies. When party members prioritize the personality of a leader over the rule of law (specifically term limits), it weakens democratic institutions. Kwetey’s stance is an attempt to reinforce institutional integrity over charismatic authority.

Practical Advice

For Political Supporters

If you are a member of a political party, it is crucial to distinguish between genuine support and sycophancy. Here is how to engage constructively:

• Critique Policy, Not Personality: Focus your energy on supporting policies that benefit the nation rather than blindly praising a leader.
• Respect Constitutional Limits: Understand and advocate for adherence to the nation’s constitution regarding term limits. This protects the democracy for future generations.
• Value Institution over Individual: Remember that political parties are vehicles for ideas, not just extensions of a single person’s ambition.

For Political Leaders

Leaders must actively discourage sycophancy to maintain a healthy political environment:

• Set Boundaries: Clearly state that calls for unconstitutional actions are unacceptable.
• Encourage Dissent: Create spaces where constructive criticism is valued more than flattery.
• Reference History: Use historical examples (like the Rawlings era) to ground current political decisions in established tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What did Fifi Kwetey say about a third term for Mahama?

Fifi Kwetey, the NDC General Secretary, described calls for a third presidential term for John Mahama as “pure sycophancy” and “boot-licking.” He argued that such behavior is self-serving and against the democratic traditions of the NDC.

Why is a third term controversial in Ghana?

The 1992 Constitution of Ghana limits a president to two four-year terms. Calls for a third term are seen as a violation of the constitution and a threat to the democratic transition of power.

Who is Jerry John Rawlings in this context?

Jerry John Rawlings was the founder of the NDC and a former President. Fifi Kwetey cited him as an example of a leader who respected democratic norms and never sought a third term, despite his popularity.

Is John Mahama supporting these third-term calls?

Based on available reports, the calls are coming from supporters and internal party factions. Fifi Kwetey’s statement is likely intended to shut down these calls before they can be officially associated with Mahama or the party’s official stance.

Conclusion

Fifi Kwetey’s strong condemnation of third-term advocacy serves as a pivotal moment for the National Democratic Congress. By labeling these efforts as sycophancy, he is attempting to steer the party back toward its foundational commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law. The debate underscores a broader challenge in Ghanaian politics: balancing personal loyalty with constitutional adherence. As the political landscape evolves, the NDC’s ability to navigate this internal conflict will be a test of its institutional maturity and its commitment to serving the Ghanaian people over individual ambitions.